Effects of Cognitive Styles on Web-Based Learning: Desktop Computers Versus Mobile Devices

Abstract

Mobile devices (MDs) change the way of teaching and learning. However, not every student can appreciate the value of MDs. Thus, it is necessary to consider individual differences. Among various individual differences, cognitive styles particularly affect student learning because they refer to individuals’ information processing habits. In this vein, this study aimed to compare the effects of desktop computers (DCs) and MDs on student learning from a cognitive style perspective. The results demonstrated that students in the MD scenario showed more positive reactions than those in the DC scenario. Students in the MD scenario generally performed better than those in the DC scenario. In addition, Holists and Serialists performed differently in the DC scenario, while they demonstrated similar performance in the MD scenario. However, they spent a similar amount of time for completing the tasks, regardless of the DC scenario and MD scenario.